The best of the best

Craig Short believes Jordan Rhodes is the best striker he has ever worked or played with.

The first team coach has lined up along side some of the best in the business during his playing career, but feels the 24-year-old tops the lot in terms of finishing.

“He’s the best finisher I’ve ever seen – and I’ve played with Andy Cole,” said Short.

“His goal against Fulham, was similar to the goal Andy Cole scored in the Worthington Cup final – it was just so quick.

"I watch him in training, and I've played with some very good strikers and I can't think of anyone who can finish as well as he can finish. It’s a real freaky knack he’s got, he just passes the ball into the net before the keeper has had a chance to move."

Rhodes as amassed a sensational 57 goals in his 109 appearances in a blue and white shirt and Short has no doubt he'll be back on the goal trail sooner rather than later.

“At the moment he’s not getting the chances he usually gets," added the coach. "I know we are creating chances but they haven’t been falling to Jordan.

“But he’s been through patches like this before in his career and all of a sudden he’ll surprise us – or should I say won’t surprise us – and go and score two in the next couple of games and he’ll be back to being Jordan Rhodes.

“But he’ll keep practising in training every day and, as I said, I’ve played with some very, very good strikers but I can’t think of anyone who can finish like he can finish.

“Hopefully he’ll score at the weekend.”

Tickets for Saturday's match against Nottingham Forest will be on sale from Ewood Park until 4.00pm Friday, priced £26.00 Adults, £18.00 Seniors (aged 65+), £14.00 Under 18, and £1.00 for Under 12.

Fans will be able to purchase tickets on the day of the game, cash only from the City Ground, but supporters should note that there is a £2 matchday increase for Adult and Senior prices.